Great Hotels For Working Vacations

Taking A Work Trip? Book One Of These Boss Hotels ASAP

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While we’d love all of our trips to be about cocktails by the pool and exploring new cities, sometimes our travel is work-related. Ideally, we’ll mix a bit of fun and exploration in with that work, but the ideal spots to stay are those that we can stay on top of our projects and also soak in our exotic settings. Perhaps with that coveted poolside cocktail, too. Here we share some of the top hotels in North America for vacations that include a mix of work and play.

La Casa Del Camino / Laguna Beach, CA

This oceanfront hotel in the heart of Southern California offers all of the amenities and options you need to maximize productivity and boost team morale.

With eight unique indoor and outdoor meeting spaces located just steps away from the beach, there are plenty of opportunities to brainstorm and plan in a relaxing beautiful environment. One of the outdoor spaces also includes the popular Rooftop Lounge, which boasts majestic 180-degree panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The meeting rooms at La Casa also include a fully customizable catering menu.

This historic hotel features uniquely designed SURF ROOMS that were created in partnership with professional surf and skate brands, such as Roxy and Billabong, as well we classic Spanish style rooms, all of which are equipped with working desks.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott / Multiple Locations

TownePlace Suites by Marriott an all-suite, extended stay hotel, is ideal if your trip is more extended-work-stay and less vacation. With features like a free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, fitness centers, pools, and laundry, you have everything you need to focus on your work at hand. In addition, each room has an abundance of outlets — a business essential that is rarely found in hotel rooms — so you can make yourself at home with all your gadgets and gear. All desks at Towne Suites are on wheels to give teams easy mobility and the freedom to work in any place within the room.

Last year, TPS partnered with Weber to place grills on the property. Sure you may have to work on your trip, but there’s no reason you can’t grill a proper steak while you are at it. All you need to do is B.Y.O.M. (bring your own meat). This past May, the two brands expanded on the partnership by revealing and out-of-the-box BBQ recipes created by Weber Grill Master Kevin Kolman, which can be made using the grills and supplies on TPS properties.

Carmel Valley Ranch / Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA

Be inspired in an extraordinary place. Carmel Valley Ranch is the perfect setting for those looking to play hard...and work hard. The Ranch offers guests complimentary Wi-Fi and unlimited use of the business center. Guests can work from a number of places at the resort including their private balcony overlooking Carmel Valley, their suite’s living room, the Clubhouse or at the resort's social hub — Valley Kitchen.

Once you’re done with work, the Ranch is a 500-acre playground for adults. The number of amenities and activities available on their grounds practically guarantees you will never be bored. The Ranch’s activity offerings include: an 18-hole championship golf course, a driving range designed by Pete Dye, a tennis complex with six hard courts and two Har-Tru clay courts, two sun-drenched outdoor salt-water swimming pools, an infinity hot tub, scenic trails, a sustainable four-acre pinot noir vineyard, a year-round organic garden with chicken coop, a salt house, and a world-class bee apiary — where guests can don protective suits and engage with the hives.

The Logan, Philadelphia, PA

With its unique design inspired by the city’s deep history and local art, The Logan’s prime location offers an enticing mix of culture and authentic experiences that invite exploration. Known to most as “Philadelphia’s living room,” the Commons, in the chic lobby lounge, allows guests to get work done in a comfortable, convenient setting including outlets and Wi-Fi.

The Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin Resort / Orlando, FL

This spot provides the perfect getaway for travelers looking to work and play. As a major conference hotel located in the middle of the Walt Disney World Resort, this resort was purposely designed to offer a balance of work and vacation. When it’s time for business, an in-room desk on wheels creates a mobile desk that can be used with its companion chair or while sitting in bed. Rooms are also equipped with a number of USB ports for charging any devices. Those who prefer to escape their room can get work done in the resort’s two business centers. Around the resort, guests will find several quiet nooks to get some work done, as well as coffee bars and lounges.

Hotel Zelos / San Francisco, CA

Hotel Zelos is a cool and contemporary retreat for guests looking for the perfect mix of work and play.

The boutique property recently debuted a fleet of Linus Bikes for exclusive use to guests. Four mint green city bikes are available 24/7 via the hotel’s front desk/concierge, equipped with soft brown leather seating, handles, and a water (or wine) bottle holder so guests can sightsee in style.

After a day exploring the many cultural arts, shopping, and entertainment institutions that are only blocks away from Hotel Zelos, guests can unwind at the hotel’s crown jewel, Dirty Habit, one of the city’s hottest bars, located on the fifth floor. This bar is known for small-batch whiskey, shareable bites, and a vibrant outdoor patio with fire pits — a rarity in SF.

When it’s time to get down to business, Hotel Zelos provides a lounge-style co-working space complete with high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi, an abundance of outlets, freshly brewed coffee, fruit infused water, and premium publications so guests can catch up on the news first thing in the morning. When the play portion of your trip is over, rest assured, each of the property’s oversized stylish suites features highly functional in-room workspaces.

Hotel Zelos is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, only mere blocks from the city’s largest tech offices and convention centers.

The London West Hollywood / Beverly Hills, CA

The London West Hollywood is an all-suite hotel, meaning there’s totally enough seating area in your room from which to work (in your plush London robe of course). Guests can enjoy a decadent complimentary breakfast at Boxwood Restaurant, perfect for fueling up before a day of meetings. When the meetings wrap, head up to the rooftop and lounge poolside with views of Los Angeles surrounding you. Insiders tip: break-up the day by hanging with The London’s puppy ambassadors, Winston and Churchill.

Seaport Hotel And World Trade Center / Boston, MS

Located in Boston’s up and coming Seaport District is this beautiful hotel. Whether you are traveling for business, pleasure or a little bit of both, this hotel is a great choice. Work-friendly amenities in the newly renovated guest rooms include bedside reading lights mounted to the headboards, bedside electrical and USB ports, and even a moveable desk that you can wheel over to your window for a beautiful view of the Boston Harbor. Guests can enjoy complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, complimentary Keurig coffee and tea service, a PrintMe service allowing direct printing from your room and laptop-sized safes.

The Mondrian / Miami, FL

Take in one of the best views of Miami while still being able to work. The Mondrian has huge cabanas that all contain outlets and outdoor dining tables that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If guests are too distracted working outside there is also a business center which includes all the necessary office features.

INNSIDE New York / NYC, NY

Located in Chelsea, INNSIDE New York is in close proximity to NoMad, Garment District, Greenwich Village, and Union Square — perfect for business travelers who have a full schedule of meetings in midtown. Each guest room is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, a refreshment center, comfortable workspace, a 42" flat-screen TV with separate USB connection panel, Bluetooth connectivity, and a laptop size safe. The property also offers in-room Nespresso coffee machines, dry cleaning service, airport transfer service (on request), press reader (worldwide newspapers & magazines on your device), business center, and free translation services.

The Darcy / Washington D.C.

Located within walking distance from Dupont Circle and the White House in the heart of Washington, D.C., this design-forward hotel draws inspiration from the fast-moving, cosmopolitan community around it, welcoming travelers with distinctive details, including creative programming, and local partnerships.

Guests staying at The Darcy who are traveling for work will love the property’s on-site Haberdashery, created by local menswear designer Read Wall and filled with accessories like ties and cufflinks. There’s also the hotel’s nightly cocktail tasting and cocktail cart, both featuring local favorites Green Hat Gin and Element Shrub drinking vinegar.

Shelborne South Beach / Miami, FL

Not only does this hotel have a great lobby bar, with its own Cabaret Thursday-Sunday evening, but it also has an iconic pool. The pool's cabanas are practically hotel rooms, with huge showers, TVs, a changing room, a couch, and several outlets. One could easily turn the cabanas into a business meeting in between dips in the pool. What more could you ask for when traveling?

Also — if staying there over the weekend Shelborne offers free meditation sessions every Saturday morning right on the beach. Had a long day using their meeting space? Go get free chips and guacamole at Bodega Taqueria y Tequila and wash it down with a discounted margarita.

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa / San Antonio, TX

This resort features many places to tuck away with your laptop. With tables featuring plugs and Wi-Fi that easily reaches the 9-acre River Bluff Water Experience, you can enjoy the view of the pools and seven water slides, and try out the food, and drinks from River Top Grill, while sending out those emails. If you're looking for a quieter spot, the Texas Library offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the property. Set adjacent to the main lobby, the library features warm, plush furnishings, a fireplace, and a cozy atmosphere.

Crooked Branch, the resort's lobby bar, not only features delicious cuisine and drinks, but they also have tables with built-in power so you can plug in easily while not missing out on any of the fun. Who wouldn't love to enjoy a view of the Texas Hill Country while working?

LUMA Hotel Times Square / NYC, NY

Situated in the heart of Manhattan, this spot offers a contemporary and innovative approach to hospitality. The rooms have Frette luxury linens, fast Wi-Fi, and hot cups of freshly brewed Nespresso. On the ground floor is acclaimed, James Beard Award-winning Chef Jose Garces’ new restaurant Ortzi, taking its name from the Basque word for “sky” and inspired by the region’s great tradition of tapas. Guests can enjoy a cocktail and a great meal after a long day of work.

Fairmont Miramar / Santa Monica, CA

At this gorgeous Santa Monica property, the lobby lounge is a great place to work. With all day food and drink service, Wi-Fi and lots of tables and couches, you can host impromptu meetings throughout the day. The hotel exterior is just as lovely as the interior, with fountains, a koi pond, and all-day service. The bungalow suites are great for one-on-one meetings and provide a nice element of seclusion with their private patios. The Bungalow (the bar) also offers each individual room to be rented out for meetings and conferences.

The St. Regis / San Francisco, CA

Located in the SoMa district next to the Financial District — one block from the Moscone Convention Center —The St. Regis is one of the best hotels in San Francisco for those on business or working while on vacation. This hotel offers guestrooms and suites outfitted with large writing desks and comfortable chairs, meeting spaces, boardrooms, the Grill Restaurant, the Lobby Lounge and Bar (that is packed with businessmen and women at all hours), a 24-hour business center, Wi-Fi, and the signature St. Regis Butler Service — should guests need anything for their business or travel needs.

During a working vacation, there’s no better way to unwind than at the hotel’s signature Remède Spa, featuring world-class spa treatments (including the hotel’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Facial), an indoor salt-water infinity pool with 24-hour access, 360-degree views of the city, low-slung lounge furniture, pillow-topped window seats, and a full poolside menu.

The Palms Hotel & Spa / Miami Beach, FL

If you’re looking to catch up on your emails while you work on your tan, look no further than The Palms Hotel & Spa, an oceanfront gem in the heart of Miami Beach. Book a poolside private cabana among The Palms’ lush tropical gardens, and transform it into your office for the day. You’ll have everything you need for a mix of productivity and R&R, all while being just steps from the pool and beach. The Palms’ cabanas are equipped with personalized Tiki Bar service, two lounge chairs, a table, privacy curtains, Wi-Fi, a 32-inch LED TV, an iPod docking station, plus an ice bucket and flat and sparkling water.

Business travelers can make the most of a work trip by taking advantage of a variety of programming ranging from complimentary “Namaste in Nature” yoga classes, to “Palms NatuRUNs” running workshops, to evening happy hour at Essensia Restaurant & Lounge.

Opal Sands Resort / Clearwater Beach, FL

With a funky-fresh, modern atmosphere overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Opal Sands Resort is a perfect place to merge work and play. Each stylish, beach-chic room features multiple seating areas with coastal-inspired plush couches and chairs. All of the rooms are Gulf-front with spacious balconies and charging outlets at every turn inside the room.

For a quick snack break, each floor of the hotel has a refreshment nook with cookies, fruit, and water. Beyond the walls of the room, there are many spots to work with a view, all without getting your toes sandy. Beautiful, modern meeting rooms extend across the resort’s second floor with floor-to-ceiling windows. If you're looking for a spot to unwind or catch up with colleagues be sure to check out the artsy lobby, the lounge at Sea-Guini — with seats along the pool, and Sand Bar — which features rocking chairs, cabanas, and lounge chairs lined along the water's edge.

And for when the work is done, the Prohibition Bar, located on the 27th floor of the tower, is a speakeasy-style space with classic wood furnishings and seemingly endless cozy nooks. Surrounded by bookshelves and crannies to set the mood for a sophisticated happy hour, guests can sip on craft cocktails while taking in the 360-degree city views.

Also, be sure to check out the hotel’s Living Room Bar (unique from any other W hotel brand). This is another great spot to catch up on emails or meet with your teammates by day, and party to DJ Lenka’s beats by night.

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa / Arenal, Costa Rica

Business travelers who want to go a little off the grid should head to Tabacon — a lush, tropical paradise spread across 900 acres of rainforest near the base of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano. In addition to a brand new meeting space that the resort just unveiled this year, the property features outdoor rainforest bungalows where guests can plug in their laptops and work to the sounds of rushing streams and local wildlife.

When they’re not busy working, travelers can soak in 100% natural thermal springs heated by the volcano’s magma, unwind with alfresco spa treatments, or get their adrenaline-pumping with adventure activities that include zip-lining, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting.

The Westin Playa Bonita / Panama City

This beachfront, tropical oasis, just minutes from bustling downtown Panama City, is the perfect escape for travelers who want to enjoy lux perks and incredible access to local cultural attractions on their next business trip. In addition to a handful of international restaurants, oceanfront fresh-water infinity pools, and spacious Renewal Suites, the property is within arm’s reach of the Gamboa rainforest, Casco Viejo and the new Frank Ghery Biodiversity Museum. Not to mention, it offers the largest meeting space in Panama City and a state-of-the-art Sensory Spa by Clarins, where guests can get pampered in between meetings and appointments.

If you're looking for a quiet workspace, the Renewal Suite living rooms are large and spacious and offer beautiful views of ships waiting to enter the Panama Canal.

The Godfrey Hotel / Boston, MS

This luxury hotel located in Boston’s Downtown Crossing neighborhood was built within the historic walls of Boston’s Amory and Blake buildings, now fused together and centered around a buzzing, sleek lobby. The hotel’s lobby features comfortable seating options, its own craft cocktail bar, and sits as a connecting hub between Boston-beloved George Howell Coffee and the new RUKA Restobar, an Asian-Peruvian restaurant recently named one of Boston’s best new restaurants.

During the day, the lobby acts as an extension of the coffee shop, with a communal table and cozy nooks for people to spread out, work, and watch the bustling neighborhood through the street front windows. For guests who prefer working in privacy, the hotel’s guestrooms are outfitted with large work desks and InnSpire’s cutting edge ‘Guest Media Streaming’ technology, allowing guests to stream their mobile devices’ content directly to their 55” HDTV. In fact, upon opening, The Godfrey Hotel became the first U.S. hotel to offer the Stockholm-based company’s hospitality technology services to their guests.

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